Ledger Live Login — Cryptocurrency Management Platform

Access Ledger Live securely to manage your Ledger hardware wallet, view your portfolio, install apps, and perform transactions with confidence.

Overview

Ledger Live is a non-custodial management application that connects to your Ledger hardware device to perform secure transaction signing. Logging into Ledger Live gives you access to the app’s interface and online features (account settings, partner integrations, cloud sync where enabled) while private keys remain on your Ledger device.

Why secure login matters

Although Ledger Live does not hold your crypto keys, account-level access controls protect settings, preferences, connected services, and any cloud-synced metadata. A secure login reduces the risk that attackers can change your account settings or connect malicious services.

How to log in to Ledger Live (desktop)

  1. Open Ledger Live on your computer. If you don't have it installed, download it from Ledger’s official site (ledger.com/start).
  2. On the welcome screen choose "Sign in" or continue without an account if you prefer to use the app locally.
  3. Enter your Ledger account credentials (email and password) if you’ve created an online account previously. If you haven’t, you can create one from the same screen.
  4. Complete any two-factor authentication steps (if enabled) — this might be a TOTP code from an authenticator app or another method offered by Ledger.
  5. Connect and unlock your Ledger hardware device to access accounts and sign transactions. Ledger Live will prompt you to open the relevant app (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) on the device when required.

How to log in to Ledger Live (mobile)

Ledger Live mobile integrates with Ledger Nano X over Bluetooth and supports the same account features as the desktop app. Download Ledger Live from the App Store or Google Play, then choose Sign in or Create account and follow the mobile flow.

Creating and managing your Ledger account

If you choose to create an online Ledger account, use a unique, strong password and consider a dedicated email address. Ledger account creation typically involves:

  • Email verification — click the link in the verification email Ledger sends you.
  • Setting up a password — use a password manager to generate and store a unique password.
  • Enabling 2FA — strongly recommended for added security.

Two-factor authentication (2FA)

Enabling 2FA is one of the most effective ways to secure your Ledger account. Ledger supports TOTP authenticator apps (recommended). Avoid SMS 2FA when possible because SMS can be SIM-swapped.

  • Use an authenticator app like Google Authenticator, Authy, or any TOTP-compatible app.
  • Store backup codes in a secure place in case you lose access to your authenticator device.
  • If you use multiple devices, consider enrolling them with your authenticator app to avoid lockout.

Logging in without an online account

Ledger Live can be used locally without creating an online account. You can manage your device and accounts entirely offline (aside from blockchain network access required to fetch balances and broadcast transactions). This approach minimizes online exposure but will not sync settings across devices.

Security checklist — before you log in

  • Confirm you're on legitimate Ledger software or the official website (ledger.com).
  • Use a private, trusted network — avoid public Wi-Fi when performing sensitive actions.
  • Ensure your operating system and Ledger Live are up to date.
  • Have your Ledger hardware device and any 2FA devices ready.

Troubleshooting login issues

Forgot password

Use the "Forgot password" link on the sign-in screen. The reset link will be sent to your registered email — check spam folders. If you cannot access your email, contact Ledger Support with proof of purchase to assist recovery.

2FA problems

If you lose access to your authenticator, use the recovery codes you stored during setup. If those are unavailable, contact Ledger Support and be prepared to verify account ownership.

What Ledger will never ask for

  • Your 24-word recovery phrase — never enter it on a website or share it with anyone.
  • Your device PIN — never disclose it to support or anyone.
  • Full seed or private keys — Ledger support will never request these.

Connecting third-party services

Ledger Live integrates with a selection of third-party services for buying, swapping, and DeFi dashboards. These services are optional; connecting them typically requires explicit consent via OAuth or another secure connection method. When connecting:

  • Review permissions carefully and only connect services you trust.
  • Disconnect integrations from the account settings if you no longer use them.

Session and local data handling

Ledger Live stores local metadata such as account nicknames, transaction history (for convenience), and app settings. This data can be cleared from settings if you prefer minimal local traces. Private keys and recovery phrases are never stored by Ledger Live.

Advanced: passphrase and hidden accounts

Advanced users can enable a passphrase (sometimes called 25th word) on top of the recovery phrase. A passphrase creates additional, separate wallets derived from the same seed. Important notes:

  • Passphrases are an extra security layer but irreversible — if you lose the passphrase you lose access to those wallets.
  • Keep a secure record of any passphrase you use, and treat it like the recovery phrase.

Best practices for account hygiene

  • Use a password manager to generate and store unique passwords.
  • Enable 2FA and store backup codes securely offline.
  • Monitor connected apps and revoke access you don’t recognize.
  • Keep recovery phrases offline and consider steel backups for long-term protection.
  • Regularly review Ledger’s official support pages for security advisories.

Step-by-step: Secure sign-in and initial sync

  1. Open Ledger Live and sign in (or choose to continue without an account).
  2. Connect and unlock your Ledger hardware device using your PIN.
  3. Open the relevant blockchain app on the hardware device when Ledger Live prompts you.
  4. Allow Ledger Live to sync account information. This sync fetches balances and transaction history from the networks — it does not expose your private keys.
  5. Once synced, review your accounts and perform a small test transaction if this is your first time using the setup — start with a tiny amount to validate the workflow.

Recovering access if you lose your Ledger device

If your hardware device is lost or damaged, you can restore access to your funds using your recovery phrase on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet. The online Ledger account cannot recover funds without the recovery phrase — that phrase is the master key to your accounts.

Contacting support safely

Use Ledger’s official support channels for assistance. When contacting support, never give your recovery phrase or private keys. Ledger support may ask for order numbers, device serial numbers, or other proof of purchase to verify ownership — have those ready if possible.

Privacy & data practices

Ledger’s privacy policy describes what account data is collected and how it’s used. Typically Ledger collects minimal data necessary to provide services, such as email, preferences, and transaction metadata used to display portfolio values. The security-critical material — seeds and private keys — never leave your device.

Quick reference — do’s and don’ts

Do

  • Verify you’re on Ledger’s official software or website.
  • Use strong passwords and 2FA.
  • Keep recovery phrases offline and backed up in multiple secure locations.
  • Use a passphrase only if you understand the risks and record it securely.

Don’t

  • Enter your recovery phrase on websites, emails, or chat with anyone.
  • Share your device PIN or private keys with support representatives.
  • Use public or unsafe networks for sensitive operations unless you use a VPN you trust.